the ions are drummer Kevin Belsey, bassist Tom Cervenka, guitarist Mike Czmil, keyboardist Mary Vondriska, and guitarist Steve Shonder. Steve, a classically trained guitarist and singer who can play every song on Alice Cooper's Killer, writes most of the ions originally music. The band was formed several summers ago through a loose connection with local artist Liz Berg. Liz called Tom, who formerly played bass in her band, and mentioned that Mike and Kevin were looking for a singer. Tom, who has been playing bass with Steve since they were mere toddlers, put him in touch with Mike, and Steve joined Kevin and Mike to form "Attention Deficit" with another guitarist and bass player. After the bass player and guitarist moved on, Tom joined to play bass and Steve switched to guitar. The band changed its name to "the ions" and played their first gig in July 2014. Later that year (again through a contact with Liz Berg) Mary joined making her first appearance with the band in December. The ions are frequent performers in the Chicago area and are seeking to expand their fan base regionally. The ions have over 60 classic rock and current cover tunes in their repertoire and are currently rehearsing to record an album of original music.

Sam Robinson Quintet Since 2003, Sam Robinson has played in Chicago venues such as Andy’s Jazz Club, The Green Mill, The Whistler, Hunter’s, Café Prague and Norman’s Bistro. He was also a member of the Chicago-based Shelley Yoelin Jazz Worshop Septet and has been a repeated guest soloist at the Serbian Village jazz club. He currently leads the Sam Robinson Quintet.

Tenor Saxophonist, Scott Angst, studied Jazz Performance and Composition at Northern Illinois University and DePaul University. He studied saxophone with Mark Colby, Steve Duke, and Rich Corpolongo; and composition with Joey Sellers and Tom Matta. He performs in and around Chicagoland with various artists.

Linard Stroud Jr. began playing drums at age 3 with his father at the legendary Chicago Lakefront Drum Circle. Linard has performed and/or recorded with various gospel, blues, jazz and r&b artists such as Lionel Hampton, CC Winans, Jennifer Holiday, Ricky Dillard, Buddy Guy, Syl Johnson and Steve Arrington.

A current a graduate from the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University, bassist Nicholas Davis is studying jazz to make a career doing what he loves. His time at Roosevelt opened his ears where he played in the Fusion, Brazilian, Hard Bop, and the avant-garde groups.

Pianist Michael Walters has led a weekly Jazz Jam session in Chicago for 10+ years (now residing at “Jen’s Guesthouse “ in Willow Springs, Ill). After and graduating from DePaul University with a Bachelor Degree in Music he became a professional Trumpet player through this early years and played in some of Chicago’s finest showrooms for such artists as Ella Fitztgerald, Bob Hope, Pointer Sisters, Steve and Eydie Gorme and many others. He later decided to switch instruments and take his love of piano to the next level. He studied classical piano with the renown Teacher Goldie Golub as well with local Chicago Jazz teachers including Larry Novak, Alan Swain, Skip Green, John Campbell and from Atlanta -Kevin Bales.

Here is a link to one of the tunes on the group’s debut album, “Sweet Love of Mine.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IqiswXkH4o

Richie Flamenco Richie Bennett - known as Richie Flamenco - is a highly talented guitarist and composer who specializes in playing Flamenco guitar. Largely self-taught, Richie has become somewhat of a celebrity among his fellow musicians for his incredible repertoire and musicianship.

8pm $7

A second Improv drop-in class has been added from 7-9pm. We aren't looking for experience although are looking for people being open to play! If this sounds like you or someone you know then meet us on Sunday.

Don't forget our Monday drop-ins from 7-9pm. Stop by when you can!

EVERY SUNDAY Except the 3rd Sundays every month!!!

IMPROV MONDAYS: Drop-in Workshop with Dennis Episcopo happens every Monday! This is a guided workshop that is available to all levels. Come join in the fun! 6:30pm-8:30pm. $10

Designate the time and space to create!!! Everyone welcome--artists, writers, performers come chill, chat, communicate, create in an inspiring space!!! EVery Tuesday----7:30pm-11pm. $5 suggested donation. Some supplies for art and writing provided or bring your own.